Sailing the Great Barrier Reef

November 16, 2017

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena. If you’re lucky enough to be counting down the days until you jet off for a tailor-made Australia holiday, it’s well worth taking some time to explore this natural wonder located off the East Coast.

Sailing the Great Barrier Reef

Illuminating the bright blue waters of the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, the Great Barrier reef is the world’s largest reef system. Stretching more than 340,000 square kilometres, this is a vast underwater network comprising almost 3,000 individual coral reefs. The area is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, more than 100 shark species and in excess of 30 mammal species. The reef also provides a sanctuary for six of the seven most endangered species of turtle. There are 900 islands nestled off the coastline.

There are many different tours available that enable visitors to explore the Great Barrier Reef, but perhaps the best way to discover the beauty of this colourful underwater playground and its incredible residents is a sailing trip. There’s nothing like the feel of the breeze in your hair and the sun on your skin as you sail through the clear waters surrounded by tiny islands dotted with tropical palms. Sailing gives you the opportunity to stop at different points of the reef, design your own itinerary and explore the many islands in the area. If you have an experienced captain on board, you can also take advantage of their local knowledge and they’ll guide you to all the best diving spots.

Travelling by boat also gives you the opportunity to enjoy more time out at sea. If you’re staying overnight or you’re going on a week-long voyage, you don’t have to waste time getting to your destination. As soon as you’re up and ready, you can start a day of swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving before winding down on the deck with a cool drink to watch the sunset.

Planning your Visit

With so much choice available, it can be difficult to narrow down the options and choose a tour and an itinerary that suits you. Think about how much time you have available, how you want to spend that time and what you want to do on your travels. If you’re a keen scuba diver, look for tours and sailing trips that will take you to a series of different reefs and provide you with a variety of experiences. If you want to see the islands, as well as doing a bit of diving and some snorkelling, seek out companies that offer the chance to explore golden beaches and quaint coves as well as the coral gardens. If you’re an experienced sailor, you could charter a boat, but most people find it beneficial to take advantage of insider information and local knowledge and join an organised tour.

If you’re visiting Australia, sailing the Great Barrier Reef is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry! Have a wonderful time!

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